FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
MAY 26, 2020
[TRIANGLE, VA.] United Mine Workers of America (UMWA) International President Cecil E. Roberts issued the following statement today:
“As a U.S. Army veteran who served in combat in Vietnam, I was saddened to see the President’s attacks on Congressman Conor Lamb yesterday. I was even sadder to see them embraced by his opponent, also a U.S. Army combat veteran. He should know better. Those who put on the uniform do not do so because of politics, they do so because they love their country. Those who have never worn the uniform will never know what that means.
“Conor Lamb was an outspoken leader in the bipartisan effort to secure pensions and health care for retired coal miners. He stood with us every single day until the battle was won. We will never forget it, and working and retired coal miners in Pennsylvania will stand by him every day as well.
“I have witnessed Conor Lamb work in a bipartisan way, and I know what kind of a man he is. Washington needs more politicians willing to work with those across the aisle, not less. The American people deserve more civility in our national dialogue, not less.
“American leaders need to show more respect for those who were willing to fight for our country and lay down their lives, if need be. Doing otherwise dishonors every veteran and, indeed, every American.”
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